What happens in mediation?
Mediation is flexible and informal. The normal process is for the parties and mediator to meet together at scheduled sessions. Mediation is like a guided negotiation between the parties, with the mediator facilitating the communication. Most meditations follow a format similar to this: • The mediator and the parties agree to a number of guidelines they will follow in the mediation. This usually includes only allowing one person to speak at a time, treating all parties with respect, and confidentiality. • The parties make their initial statements regarding their disagreement and define what they hope to resolve in the mediation. • The parties discuss their interests and possible solutions to resolve their disagreement. The mediator can help the parties brainstorm and analyze the strengths/weaknesses of their positions. • The parties create a mutually agreeable solution. • Once agreed on, the solution is formalized in a written agreement. In mediation, two types of meetings can occur. In
